As of the 2025–2026 school year, there are approximately 98,500 public schools operating in the United States. This number includes elementary, middle, high, and combined-grade schools across all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Understanding this figure helps parents, educators, and policymakers make informed decisions about education resources and planning.
What counts as a public school?
The U.S. Department of Education defines a public school as an institution that is publicly funded, operates under a state or local school board, and provides free education to all students in its attendance area. This definition includes traditional district schools, charter schools, and magnet schools.
It does not include private schools, homeschools, or virtual schools that are not tied to a public school district. When counting public schools, the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) uses the most recent data from the Common Core of Data (CCD) survey.
Types of public schools
- Traditional district schools — run by local school boards and funded by local property taxes and state aid.
- Charter schools — publicly funded but independently operated, often with more flexibility in curriculum.
- Magnet schools — public schools with specialized themes or programs designed to attract students from across a district.
- Alternative schools — serve students who need a non-traditional setting, such as those at risk of dropping out or with behavioral challenges.
How many public elementary schools are there?
Elementary schools make up the largest share of public schools in the U.S. According to the most recent NCES data, there are about 66,000 public elementary schools, serving roughly 30 million students from kindergarten through grade 5 (or sometimes grade 6).
These schools vary widely in size — from small rural schools with fewer than 100 students to large urban schools with over 1,000. The average elementary school enrolls about 450 students.
Key differences by school level
| School level | Approximate number of schools | Typical grades served |
|---|---|---|
| Elementary | 66,000 | K–5 or K–6 |
| Middle | 20,000 | 6–8 or 7–8 |
| High | 24,000 | 9–12 |
| Combined/other | 8,500 | PreK–12 or alternative |
Note: Some schools serve overlapping grade spans, so totals may not sum exactly to 98,500 due to rounding and classification differences.
How has the number of public schools changed over time?
The total number of public schools has remained relatively stable over the past decade, with slight declines in some regions and growth in others. Between 2010 and 2020, the U.S. lost about 1,500 public schools, largely due to district consolidation in rural areas.
However, the number of charter schools has increased significantly — from about 5,000 in 2010 to over 7,500 in 2026. This growth has offset some of the closures of traditional district schools. Meanwhile, enrollment in public schools has declined slightly since 2020, partly due to lower birth rates and increased homeschooling.
Where are most public schools located?
Public schools are distributed unevenly across the country. The five most populous states — California, Texas, Florida, New York, and Illinois — account for about 38% of all public schools. California alone has over 10,000 public schools.
Rural areas tend to have smaller schools but more of them per capita, while urban areas have larger schools with higher student populations. Suburban districts often have the highest number of schools within a single district.
Funding and resources vary by location
Public schools are primarily funded through local property taxes and state allocations, which means wealthier districts often have more resources. This can affect class sizes, teacher salaries, and extracurricular offerings.
Federal funding makes up only about 8% of total public school revenue, mostly targeted at low-income students (Title I) and special education (IDEA).
What is the average size of a public school?
The average public school in the U.S. enrolls about 500 students. Elementary schools average 450 students, middle schools average 600, and high schools average 750. However, these averages mask wide variation — some urban high schools have over 4,000 students, while rural elementary schools may have fewer than 50.
Small schools often provide more personalized attention, while larger schools can offer more advanced courses and extracurricular activities. There is no single “ideal” size, and research shows mixed results on the impact of school size on student outcomes.
How to find information about your local public schools
If you want to know how many public schools are in your area, visit the NCES website and use their School Search tool. You can also contact your state department of education for state-specific data.
For parents choosing a school, look at school report cards published by your state. These include enrollment numbers, test scores, and teacher qualifications.
Remember that the total number of public schools changes each year as new schools open and others close. For the most current count, check the NCES Common Core of Data, which is updated annually.
In summary, the U.S. has about 98,500 public schools, with elementary schools making up the majority. Understanding this landscape helps families navigate their options and advocates push for equitable funding and resources.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many public schools are there in the United States right now?
As of the 2025–2026 school year, there are approximately 98,500 public schools in the United States, including traditional district schools, charter schools, and magnet schools.
How many public elementary schools are in the US?
There are about 66,000 public elementary schools in the US, serving grades kindergarten through fifth or sixth grade.
Are charter schools counted as public schools?
Yes, charter schools are publicly funded and are included in the total count of public schools in the United States.
How many public high schools are in America?
There are roughly 24,000 public high schools in the United States, serving grades 9 through 12.
Why does the number of public schools change each year?
The number changes due to school closures, consolidations, and the opening of new schools, especially charter schools, which have grown significantly in recent years.
